Source Water Protection: Wellhead Protection Area Study in Ottawa

Geofirma conducted a Wellhead Protection Area (WHPA) Study for a proposed new drinking water well in the municipality of Ottawa. The study built on the geologic site characterization work that Geofirma previously completed at the site. The work consisted of three main parts, consistent with the provincial technical rules:

• Delineation of WHPA: A regional-scale 3D numerical model was developed to calculate the flow field around the proposed well. Particle tracking was conducted to delineate capture zones around the well.
• Vulnerability Assessment: Time of travel from surface to the well was assessed to determine the vulnerability of the aquifer intersected by the proposed well.
• Threats Assessment: Surveys were conducted to assess and enumerate potential significant threats to the proposed well.